Hotel Pitrizza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Costa Smeralda

The Pitrizza is an unpretentious, tranquil hotel that combines rustic style with contemporary design features to create an upscale experience -- as a bonus, it's one of the few beachfront properties in this part of Sardinia's famous Costa Smeralda. There is plenty of natural stone throughout, and the hotel is set amid a handsome Mediterranean garden. Terra cotta floors, local art, and wood beams add flavor to the authentic lobby and restaurant -- an antique-lite style that continues once guests are inside their rooms -- while the breakfast room and bar are cave-like and cozy, and have colorful armchairs. Both the restaurant and the bar offer exquisite ocean views and are popular with locals and hotel guests, most of whom are vacationing couples looking for a romantic escape on one of Italy's most famous stretches of coast. 

Hotel Pitrizza is located right on the beach, in northeastern Sardinia along the Costa Smeralda, one of Italy's most iconic and exclusive destinations. Porto Cervo -- with its posh restaurants and shops -- is a 10-minute drive away, while several beaches -- including Romazzino and Tanca Manna -- are within a half-hour drive. Keep in mind that this hotel isn't open year round, and there is little on offer in this part of Sardinia outside of the high season. The Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is 40 minutes away by car, as is the Olbia ferry, which travels to Livorno on the coast of Tuscany. Guests should consider renting a car as taxis in the area are pricey.

Rooms, suites, and villas have traditional yet contemporary design, with quintessentially Sardinian rugs, local artisan textiles, and hand-carved furniture. Pops of pastel pinks and blues add a stylish, modern touch, though admittedly the sometimes frilly look won't be for everyone. All rooms are air-conditioned and have minibars, flat-screen TVs, and furnished terraces. Some have excellent Liscia di Vacca Bay views as well as private outdoor pools and hot tubs, while others have luxurious features like 24-hour butler service. Bathrooms mirror the main guest rooms, with antique diamond-shaped pastel blue tile and modern marble floors and countertops. All have heated towel racks, separate tubs and walk-in tile showers, most with rainfall showerheads. Some also have jetted tubs. Bathrobes, slippers, and Acqua di Parma toiletries are provided.

Carved from wind-sculpted rocks of Gallura, the gorgeous saltwater infinity pool is the gem of the hotel, with fantastic bay views, and poolside snacks and drinks. Large rocks and shrubs are sprinkled throughout the beach, with wooden lounge chairs resting under palapa-style parasols -- this is one of the few beachfront hotels in this part of Sardinia. Mediterranean and traditional Sardinian dishes are served for lunch and dinner at Restaurant Pitrizza, while the Bar Pitrizza has small plates plus Italian cocktails and aperitifs. A buffet breakfast with hot and cold items is included in room rates, and full and half-board options are also available. Mani/pedis and massages are offered at the small spa, while the indoor/outdoor fitness center has cardio and weight equipment. Les Clefs d’Or concierge service is available 24 hours a day, as is room service. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. There's also a business center on-site and small pets are allowed for free. Note that the hotel is only open seasonally, from May to September.